Summer 2023 Obituaries

Obituaries

1942

Phyllis Darby Thompson, 100, of Thousand Oaks, California, on October 12, 2022. Phyllis was a bright student in all subjects and was able to graduate high school at 16. She began attending Coe College where she met her future husband, Dale Thompson, at a school dance. Phyllis turned her love of reading and music into her college major, eventually teaching instrumental music and English literature in the Burbank Unified School District for over 40 years. Phyllis moved to Glendale, California, at 20 and began her teaching years at Jordan Junior High in Burbank while Dale was deployed in Germany during World War II. Dale returned safely and they were married in 1945, eventually having two sons and moving to Panorama City, California, and later Burbank. During summer breaks the entire family enjoyed long road trips and camping vacations. Both Phyllis and Dale retired from teaching in 1981 and spent many enjoyable years together doing the things they loved most including golf, travel, happy hour scrabble tournaments and visits with many friends. Phyllis was an active member of the UME Credit Union board for many years. After Dale passed away in 2008, Phyllis moved from Burbank to University Village in Thousand Oaks, California, where she spent her final years meeting new friends and joining in the many activities there. She was an active member of First Presbyterian Church in Burbank and Westminster Presbyterian at Westlake Village. Phyllis continued enjoying her hobbies while at University Village, listened to her favorite operas and was a terror at the bingo table. Phyllis molded the lives of not only her two sons, but hundreds of junior high and high school students with her common sense, level-headed outlook on life, wisdom, calm demeanor, tolerance and sense of humor. She was a great example indeed for all wives, mothers and teachers. Phyllis is survived by her two sons, Michael and Richard; granddaughter Julia and great-grandson Jack.

1943

Janet Jo Jefferis McMeans Tompkins, 100, of Durant, Oklahoma, on March 13. Janet spent her youth in Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Spiceland, Indiana and Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She graduated from Coe College with a bachelor’s degree in French. In fall 1943, Janet met with the Navy recruiters and scored the highest on the written test ever recorded in Cedar Rapids, approving her for officer’s candidate school. She reported to Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts, in December 1943. She reported to the Office of Naval Communications Annex in Washington, D.C. and spent her service coding and decoding top secret, secret and routine messages.  She earned several commendations, was promoted to lieutenant (junior grade) and received her honorable discharge in 1946.  She remained in the U.S. Naval Reserves until 1951. In 1946, Janet married F.W. McMeans “Mac,” a Navy corpsman/Marine who served the medical corps in the Pacific Theater. They both enrolled at the University of Iowa where Mac earned his pharmacy degree and Janet earned her master’s degree in education on the GI Bill. Following their schooling, Mac went with Osco Drug and moved them to St. Paul and St. Cloud, Minnesota, and Irving, Texas. They owned and operated Williamsburg Drug for over ten years. During these moves, Janet and Mac had three children: Wayne (named for the warship that took Mac to Guadalcanal), Sharon and Diane. Janet was a great source of strength for her children, enduring and sacrificing much for them. She lost Mac when they were young, and later married Leslie Tompkins, who passed away in 2011. Finding herself without a spouse for the first time in over 60 years, Janet explored some talents she had laid aside. She painted with oils and acrylics, enjoyed reading and shopping with her daughters, posted regularly on Facebook and dined where she could order her signature margarita. She had many friends at Featherstone Assisted Living over the 12 years she lived there, many of whom predeceased her. Janet is survived by two of her children, Wayne (Linda) McMeans and Sharon Robinson; son-in-law, Gary Kreger; four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

1949

Stella Steffenson Easker, 94, of Lisbon, Iowa, on March 19. Stella attended both Coe and Cornell Colleges. She and Charles Easker married in 1947, and they moved to Mount Vernon the next year for his first year of teaching. She was a member of the Lisbon United Methodist Church, Bible study groups and New Century Club for many years. Stella Mae was employed as a secretary and bookkeeper for over 35 years, including various offices at Cornell College. After her sons were grown, she lived in Dallas, Texas, for eight and a half years, working at Lennox Industries, Inc. as executive secretary to the president/CEO and chairman of the board. Before and after her retirement, she worked part-time for her son Doug, doing accounts payable and payroll in his dental office in Mount Vernon. She loved her yard and perennials. Her greatest joys in life were her faith, family, friends and home. She was very proud of each family member and enjoyed their time together. In addition to babysitting grandchildren, she felt very blessed to live long enough to meet six of her great-grandchildren. She was dearly loved by her family and a blessing to all who knew her. She is survived by her two sons, Dr. Douglas (Cynthia) Easker and Michael Easker; four grandchildren, Paul, David (Eliza), Elizabeth (Alden) and Anne and six great-grandchildren.

Virginia McElhinney Johnson, 94, of Morning Sun, Iowa, on March 21. Mary Virginia Johnson advanced her education at Coe College where she received her teaching certificate. In 1948 she married Fritz Johnson in Webster City, Iowa. To this union two children, Tim and Melanie, were born. Virginia taught school in Webster City and Morning Sun, was the bookkeeper of the family farming business, worked at Glass Smart Shop and owned and operated Yes Virginia’s Gift Shop. She was a member of Philanthropic Educational Organization, played bridge multiple times a week, hosted a women’s Bible study in her home and directed the Sharon Church Vacation Bible School for 50 years. Virginia enjoyed following her grandchildren in their activities, hosting family holiday celebrations and was a lifelong avid college wrestling and Chicago Cubs fan. Virginia is survived by her sisters, Zelda Garretson and Sharon Galloway; sister-in-law, Kathy McElhinney; her children, Tim (Lisa) Johnson and Melanie (Randy) Kleinhans; seven grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews and her beloved dog.

1950

William Severa, 96, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on February 23. Bill began learning to play the coronet and French horn while in school. He graduated from Franklin High School in 1944, was drafted into the U.S. Army and played in the 24th Division Band, serving in the Pacific. He attended Coe College as part of the class of 1950 and was involved in the founding of the service fraternity, Alpha Phi Omega. He worked at Cook Electric in the Chicago area and sang in the choir at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, where he met and married Joan Theresa Pierce in July 1952. He returned to Cedar Rapids with his family in 1959, purchasing the home where he lived for nearly 40 years. He was bookkeeper for his uncle George Wilhelm’s Metal Crafters, Matson Trucking and Cedar Rapids Block. He also worked at Hedges Realty and Morris Plan while completing his accounting degree and was an officer with the Severa Realty Co. and managed properties including a downtown building, College DX and the Brown Apartments. Bill began his true calling when his son’s Emerald Knights Drum and Bugle Corps needed more charter bus drivers, and he maintained that position through the 1983 season. He drove for Charter Coaches, Tri-State Tours and CPO Travel until he retired from bus driving in the late 1990s. Bill loved nothing more than driving and sharing those adventures, which included a trip to Alaska. In 1997, Bill and Joan moved to independent living in Deer Ridge at Meth-Wick Community. One year later, Joan passed away from complications of metastatic cancer. Bill attended his 50th Coe College class reunion and was reacquainted with classmate Amy Colberg. They were married the following year and spent several years active and traveling together. Amy succumbed to Alzheimer’s disease in 2014. Bill participated in military organizations throughout his adult life including the U.S. Army during World War II, Illinois National Guard, Iowa Army Reserve and Reserve Officers Association. He loved music, participating in the Musketeers Drum and Bugle Corps, Coe College Band (which performed at President Truman’s inauguration), the Army Band, Marion Community Band and Eastern Iowa Brass Band. He also sang with the Harmony Hawks barbershop chorus and St. Paul’s United Methodist Church choir. Bill contributed generously to various Cedar Rapids educational and cultural organizations, including Coe College, National Czech and Slovak Museum & Library, Cedar Rapids History Center and Meth-Wick Community. He was an active member of Cedar Rapids Noon Lions Club. Bill is survived by his daughter, Margery (Keith) Haworth; son, Richard Worthington Severa; grandson, William Bernardo Severa, and nine nieces and nephews. 

1951

Jean Richardson Duffy, 95, of Irving, Texas, on November 22, 2022. Jean studied at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She is remembered as a positive, fun and loving woman who dedicated her life to her family. Jean married Harold Duffy Jr. and they had six children, Harold Duffy III, Kathy Pierce, Toni Lotspeich, Mike Duffy, Patty Stone and Jacquie Wilborn. She is survived by her children, Harold Duffy III, Kathy Pierce, Toni Lotspeich, Patty (Dennis) Stone and Jacquie Wilborn; ten grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, June Richardson, and niece and nephews.

1952

Charlotte Lazier Algozin, 91, of Carol Stream, Illinois, on February 9. Char graduated from Coe College with a degree in music and education, and she taught elementary school at Marion Rural Independent School and Cedar Rapids Public Schools in Iowa after graduation. Char’s adventurous spirit led her to apply for a teaching position at Ramey Air Force Base in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, where she taught for two years. 1n 1958, she accepted a teaching position at Toul-Rosiere Air Force Base near Toul, France, where she met the love of her life, Second Lieutenant Kenneth Algozin. Ken and Char were married in Toul in 1959. After a brief stop at Dover Air Force Base in Dover, Delaware, Ken and Char moved to Elk Grove Village in 1960 where they raised their three children, Ken Jr., Kim and Doug. Char and Ken enjoyed traveling and bicycle touring around the world with dear friends. One of their favorite spots to vacation was the island of Kauai, where they spent many peaceful hours on the lanai whale watching and playing cribbage. Char was a talented musician and a published composer of choral anthems for youth and adult church choirs. She and Ken were dedicated volunteers at Meals on Wheels for over 30 years and active members of Prince of Peace Methodist Church where they both sang in the choir. Char also volunteered at Rainbows for All Children in Rolling Meadows. She was an avid reader, enjoyed taking long walks and was a die-hard Cubs fan. Char was a supportive and loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was a joy to be around, always upbeat, and her kindness and generosity were contagious. She is survived by her children Ken Jr. (Linden), Kim (Jay) Nanashe and Doug (Leslie); seven grandchildren; one great-grandson and her sister Luella Erbes.

Lois Fix Wunschel, 92, of Carroll, Iowa, on February 6. During high school, Lois focused on music and played as an organist in her church. She later took vocal lessons at Coe College on weekends and was eventually encouraged to start her college training in music at Coe College. Following a year at Coe, Lois entered Valparaiso University, participating in the Valpo traveling Chorale and training to teach music. Following graduation, Lois taught music in Storm Lake, Iowa. Lois was befriended by a fellow teacher, Marjorie Wunschel, and invited home for Thanksgiving dinner where she met Marjorie’s younger brother Russell, a lawyer who had started a law practice in Carroll, Iowa. Lois and Russell Wunschel were married in 1955. Together they traveled extensively, enjoyed golf and playing cards with the many friends they had in the Carroll, and later, the Mesa Arizona area. Rarely a week went by when there wasn’t a game of bridge, five hundred or euchre to be played with friends, children and grandchildren. Lois was active at St. Paul Lutheran Church in the choir and a dedicated wife and mother to her five children. Lois remained dedicated to her immediate and extended family hosting holiday meals, attending reunions and being a resource for family genealogists. Lois is survived by five children, Dee Ann (Richard Taylor) Wunschel, Steven (Beka) Wunschel, Lori (Blair) Elliott, David (Sharon) Wunschel and Kristine (Joseph) Elliott; fourteen grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

1954

John “Jack” Elgin, 90, of Earlham, Iowa, on December 5, 2022. Jack was an active student at Franklin High School as starting quarterback on the football team, starting second baseman on the state championship baseball team, singer in the All-City Music Festival and senior class president. Jack married his high school sweetheart, Patricia “Pat” Ann Novak, in 1950. Jack continued his education and athletic achievements at Coe College where he earned seven varsity athletic letters across football, baseball and wrestling. He was voted most valuable player his senior year as the quarterback of the football team. In 1983, Jack was inducted into the Coe College Athletic Hall of Fame. Jack and Pat began their lives together living in Coe’s married student housing called Quonset Huts. Jack graduated from Coe in 1954 with a bachelor’s degree in education. After graduation, he coached football and taught high school biology in the North English Community School District for five years. He was the physical education instructor and head football coach at Valley High School for 13 years and had two teams win conference championships. Jack also started Valley’s wrestling program and coached baseball, winning the first Metro Conference baseball championship. Jack earned his master’s of education degree from Drake University in 1967. Jack taught physical education for 29 years and was known for teaching the fundamentals of badminton each semester. Jack was a top-notch badminton player in his own right, playing singles, men’s doubles and mixed doubles on state and national levels. He was state champion in several senior age groups and national champion in mixed doubles at the Senior Olympics. He also was an excellent golfer and played slow pitch softball well into his 70s. Jack was eager to share stories about Pat with his grandchildren after her sudden death in 1986. After retiring in 1991, Jack moved to the countryside with his cat BC and enjoyed his family visiting him. Jack is survived by his children, Jeff (Terri) Elgin, Mike (Cynthia) Elgin, Dave (Gayle) Elgin, Rick Elgin, Ann Essy (Tim Wittry) and Matt Elgin; eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Dr. Albert Hybl, 90, of Baltimore, Maryland, on December 12, 2022. Albert was raised in Cedar Rapids by his mother Marie Hybl and grandmother Anna Rose Hybl. They were 1920 immigrants from Czechoslovakia who worked at the local meatpacking plant. He earned a bachelor’s degree in math and chemistry at Coe College. Right after graduation in 1954, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and saw service in Germany and France. After his discharge in 1955, he headed to the California Institute of Technology and earned his doctorate in chemistry and math, with a specialization in crystallography. He then did postdoctoral work at Iowa State University. In 1964, he moved to Baltimore to work at the University of Maryland in Baltimore. At the end of his career, he worked in the IT division of the dean’s office. Al enjoyed classical music in addition to his many hobbies: mushroom hunting, reading mysteries and science fiction, playing chess and polka, waltz, folk and Irish social dancing. Because he still had relatives in the Czech Republic, he joined the Czech and Slovak Heritage Association where he studied the Czech language and helped with the language school and annual festivals. He even performed with the Sokol Folk Dance Ensemble. With his wife, Lois, he traveled to the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Ireland for dance workshops and tours organized by Dvorana Travel. On one trip, he met his Czech relatives in Ceska Trebova. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Lois Ann Gleason Hybl; children Anton A. Hybl (Muluye Gonfa) and Tanya M. Sandrock and five grandchildren.

Phyllis Dellmann Stanchfield, 90, of St. Louis Park, Minnesota, on March 11. Phyllis was born August 12, 1932 to Beryl Siebers and Milo Dellmann in West Allis, Wisconsin. She graduated from Nathan High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in English and a teaching certificate from Coe College in 1954, where she was a member of the Alpha Xi Delta sorority. Phyllis worked as a library media specialist and teacher for 45 years, with 28 of them in the Richfield, Minnesota, school district. She was married in 1956 to Dayton Arbegust (Kraft) and divorced in 1981. Phyllis was awarded a master’s degree in library science from the University of Minnesota in 1970. She married Sherm Stanchfield in 2000. She is survived by Sherm’s children; her three sons, Tim (Judy), David (Janelle) and Stephen (Jill); eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. 

1955

Farrell Gay, 89, of Springfield, Illinois, on March 27. Farrell studied art and was a four-year letterman in track at Coe College, where he met the love of his life, Ann LeFebure. They married in 1955. While in college, Farrell took a sales position with Standard Fruit and Steamship Company, a major importer of bananas based in New Orleans. He was acting sales manager for Standard Fruit in St. Louis for over two years before joining Brown and Loe, a fruit and vegetable brokerage firm. In 1960, Farrell along with Tom Lange and Paul Beisser purchased the brokerage office from the retiring owners and opened their first Tom Lange company office. As the youngest Lange partner, Farrell was ambitious and willing to gamble his future to open a second Lange office in Springfield, Illinois. His family stayed behind in their St. Louis home, joining Farrell a handful of months later. Farrell spent nights in the office doing paperwork. Frequently, Ann pitched in and after dinner would bring the boys with her and they would play with toys on the floor while they did a backlog of work. Farrell began his term as president of the Lange Company in 1977 with seven midwestern Lange sales offices. He transitioned to chairman of the board in 1995 and retired in 1997 with 20 Lange offices in the United States and one in Canada. He was succeeded as CEO by his friend and long-time partner, Phil Gumpert. In 1979, Lange, Gay and Gumpert purchased the site of the former Sangamo Electric and Illinois Watch Company, two of Springfield’s large employers, and sold the property to the State of Illinois EPA in 1998 after renovation. Farrell received the Mayor’s City Preservation Award for the renovation of this site. Throughout the many years of running TLC Inc., the three partners were affectionately known by the managers and employees as the “Three Wise Men.” Farrell was highly involved in various organizations and served in leadership roles for the broker’s division of the United Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Association and the Old Capitol Art Fair. He was a member of the Imperial Golf Club, the Classic Car Club of America, the National Woodie Club and Cadillac/LaSalle Club. He also served on the boards for the Sangamo Club, Illini Country Club, Springfield Art Association, Island Bay Yacht Club, Copley’s First Citizen Board, Elijah Iles House Foundation, Champion Federal, State of Illinois Public Arts Advisory Council and the Rail Classic and State Farm Classic golf tournaments. He was founder of the Farrell and Ann Gay Museum of Springfield History, located in the Elijah Iles House. His collection of Illinois Watch Company wrist watches, both men’s and ladies’, are recognized as the finest and most extensive in the country. He also enjoyed collecting classic automobiles. He is survived by his sons, Cole (Sharon) Gay and Todd (Suzi) Gay; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren and one sister, Eleanor Siepman.

1956

Barbara L. Anderson Behrman, 88, of Frisco, Texas, on January 8. Barbara was born October 5, 1934, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She has lived in Minnesota, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana and Texas. Barbara spent most of her adult life excelling at playing bridge, and she belonged to many bridge clubs throughout the years, usually winning first place. She had a love for crossword puzzles and Jeopardy. Barbara was also a pianist, starting as a young child and playing continuously throughout her lifetime. Her love for song and memory for every lyric had everyone in amazement. She was a member of Tri Delta at Coe College and graduated from Hamline University. She was an exceptional mother, wife, grandmother and friend. Being a mother was what Barbara loved most. She was very proud of each one of her children, always bragging about them to all of her friends. Her patience, kindness, wisdom, grace, wonderful advice, inner beauty and dry sense of humor will carry on through her children, which they will cherish and value for the rest of their lives. She is survived by her husband of 28 years, Edward J. Behrman; children, Julie Ann Kennedy Krause, Lori Louise Kennedy (Jim) Edwards, Kelly Jane Kennedy (Paul) Reich and Thomas Walter Kennedy; five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

1957

Wallace “Wally” Krouse, 90, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on February 6. Wally graduated from Wilson High School and earned his bachelor’s degree at Coe College in Cedar Rapids. Wally was united in marriage to Barbara Mote in 1952 at Cedar Christian Church in Cedar Rapids. He honorably served his country in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. Wally worked at St. Luke’s Hospital as purchasing agent, Americana Nursing Center as an administrator and Eli Lily Pharmaceuticals in Indianapolis, Indiana, before returning to Cedar Rapids where he worked at Kirkwood Community College as the director of continuing education until retirement. Wally was a huge baseball fan as a player and a spectator. Wally pitched for Coe College and Link Belt Speeder in the Industrial League during the 1950s and supported every Cedar Rapids semi-professional team, from the Rockets to the Kernels. Wally served as president of the Cedar Rapids Baseball Club and was instrumental in the construction of the new Memorial Stadium and Veterans Memorial. He was on the Cedar Rapids Kernels Board of Directors since the 1980s and was a member of the Elks Club. Survivors include his son Jeff (Cathy) Krouse; three grandchildren; one great-grandchild; daughter-in-law Sherri Krouse; sister-in-law Donna Krouse; brothers-in-law, Jim (Joy) Mote and Kenny (Mary) Mote; several nieces, nephews and close friends.

1958

Ann Lefebure Gay, 87, of Springfield, Illinois, on August 31, 2022. Ann married Farrell Gay in 1955. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She always put God and family first. Ann was active in various organizations including Junior League of Springfield, Island Bay Yacht Club, Illini Country Club, the Farrell and Ann Gay Museum of Springfield History, Progress Circle and the Imperial Country Club of Naples, Florida. Ann was also a teacher at the Little Red Schoolhouse for five years. She is survived by her loving husband of more than 65 years, Farrell Gay; two sons, Cole (Sharon) Gay and Todd (Suzi) Gay; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Rita Gibson Koman, 85, of Alexandria, Virginia, on March 10, 2022. Rita was married for 56 years to Joseph Koman, Jr., who preceded her in death. For their entire married life, Rita and Joe lived and raised their family in Manassas. Rita graduated from Coe College in 1958 and obtained her master’s degree from the University of Maryland - College Park in 1961. She had a lifetime drive for learning and a dedication to education, which led her to her passion for teaching. She taught history and government at the high school and community college level for twenty years, with thirteen of those years at Osbourn High School. She enjoyed teaching her students and preparing them for success in their college years. Rita wanted to share her knowledge not only with her students, but with the community. She was active in preserving the history of Manassas as an early member of the Manassas Museum Associates and received an Honorary Lifetime Member of the Historic Resources Board for the Manassas Museum recognition from the city. She worked diligently on behalf of the Museum Board, volunteered with a variety of their academic programs and supported the construction of the museum itself. She also wrote “Manassas Mosaic: Creating a Community,” which commemorates the history of the city of Manassas. Rita taught religious education classes at All Saints Catholic Church where she and her family were parishioners since 1963. She also wrote a history of the parish entitled, “United Together, All Saints, All People of God Celebrating 125 Years 1879-2004.” Rita was active in the Virginia Foundation for Women, Virginia’s State Executive Board of Delta Kappa Gamma International and her national sorority Kappa Delta. She was a voracious reader, loved to travel to historical landmarks and sites with her husband and enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren. Rita will be remembered for her love of history, contagious smile and thirst for learning. She is survived by her four children, Joseph Koman III “Jay,” David (Bistra) Koman, Julia (Patrick) Riddlemoser and Amanda Koman; four grandchildren; her sister, Rosalie (Harold) Duke; many nieces and nephews.

Jeannette Hamilton Messerli, 87, of Clinton, Iowa, on March 5. Jeannette was a farm girl who loved riding around in the truck with her dad and feeding the dogs, cats, ponies and chickens. After graduating from Maquoketa High School as valedictorian in 1954, she attended Coe College for two years, where she was a member of the Chi Omega Sorority. She married Frederick Messerli in 1956, and two children were born to this union: Tom and Peggy. Jeannette worked in the cardiac tissue lab at the University of Iowa before moving to Clinton. Upon the death of her husband in 1966, Jeannette worked as an EKG technician at Jane Lamb Hospital for five years. In 1971 she began a 30-year career with Clinton High School as the head bookkeeper/cashier for the school lunch program, retiring in 2001. In addition to working and raising her two children as a single mom, Jeannette also actively managed the family farms up until her death. Jeannette’s faith was extremely important to her. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Clinton where she was active in the United Methodist Women and served on the Board of Trustees and Finance Committee. She loved vegetable and flower gardening, baking pies and making crafts and Christmas ornaments to give away. She was a lifelong learner who never stopped searching out information and asking questions. She is survived by her children, Tom (Sheri Melvold) Messerli and Peggy (Jon) Thoms; three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

1959

Marilyn Mueller Coppernoll, 85, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on February 24. Marilyn married Donald Coppernoll in 1959. Donald passed away in 2004. Marilyn was a graduate of Coe College. She taught at Wright Elementary School and also later as a substitute teacher. She played piano and organ for Holy Redeemer Church, St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church and Knox Presbyterian Church. Marilyn was a stay-at-home mom, a den mother for Cub Scouts, Campfire Girls and a Blue Bird Teacher. Marilyn participated in bowling leagues and played tennis and golf. She loved playing piano and listening to music. She is survived by her son, Craig (Tammy) Coppernoll; daughter Carrie Coppernoll and grandson Keith Coppernoll.

Diane Teigen Williams, 85, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on December 6, 2022. Diane grew up in Rochester, Minnesota, worked as a carhop and attended Rochester Junior College followed by Mankato State University. While at Mankato State, Diane met the love of her life, Gary Williams, originally from Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Diane and Gary locked eyes during a parade at Mankato State and the rest was history. Together they transferred to Coe College to finish their degrees in education. After her bachelor’s degree, Diane went on to complete her master’s degree and worked toward her doctorate. Diane married Gary in 1960. She had a long and successful career as an educator and reading specialist for the Cedar Rapids Community School District, retiring at age 56. During her younger years, Diane owned two horses that she loved dearly, and she spent many hours of her free time riding with friends and family in the undeveloped woods on the southeast edges of Cedar Rapids and Marion. During the winter months, Diane enjoyed hiking in the snow, cross country skiing, ice skating, making snow angels with her children and snowmobiling. During her retirement, Diane enjoyed many years at their summer home with Gary, entertaining family and friends. Diane was an amazing mother, grandmother, wife, sister and friend. She put her all into everyone and everything. No obstacle was too big for Diane to face. She is survived by her children, Todd (Sharon) Williams; Tami (John) McIntyre; four grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; six nieces and nephews and their children.

1960

Roger Berghs, 84, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, on May 19, 2022. Roger spent most of his life working for Medical Protective Company and served as vice president in the legal department where he made many friends. After retirement, he worked at Cherry Hill Golf Course. Roger was a member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church and served his country as a member of the U.S. Army National Guard and U.S. Air Force where he served as infantry squad leader and a finance clerk. He had the best sense of humor, loved his happy hour drink while sitting outside, watching the Chicago Bears and Cubs and most of all spending time with his family and friends. Roger is survived by his wife of 39 years, Karen Berghs; his children, Sally (Bill) Nix, Jennifer (Phil) Huizing and Matthew (Jessica) Berghs; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Lloyd “Gus” Hoffman, Jr., 84, of Pleasant Grove, Utah, on January 8. Gus attended Coe College and graduated with his bachelor’s degree in biology in 1960. He received his medical degree from the University of Florida Medical School in 1964 and MBA from Brigham Young University in 1992. Gus was an active member of the U.S. Navy stationed in Queens, New York, where he provided pediatric services. He received the National Defense Service Medal and was honorably discharged in 1971. He was also a member of Hope Alliance, traveling to Peru to help bring medical care to children in need. Gus worked as a pediatrician for more than 40 years, with more than 20 years spent at BYU by the time he retired in 2006. Gus married the love of his life, Rebecca “Becky” Sprott, in 1963. They started their family in Gainesville, Florida, and later went on to live in Queens, New York; Pensacola, Florida; Holladay and Cedar Hills, Utah. Together they raised five children: Mark (Cindy) Hoffman, Michael (Michelle) Hoffman, Sherrie Hoffman, Matthew (Samantha) Hoffman and Miriam (Timothy) Andrus, and they took joy in their 19 grandchildren. Gus and Becky were introduced to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1964. They were quickly baptized and became life-long and faithful members. They were sealed for time and all eternity in 1967 in the Salt Lake City temple. Gus’s love for the gospel was a lifelong learning and leadership journey, and he was called as a patriarch in 2007. Gus served in several positions in the church, including their Mission Health Board where he led efforts to provide education and prevention of tuberculosis for missionaries. Gus and Becky served as medical missionaries for southern missions from Florida to Louisiana and for Africa. Gus was extremely passionate about genealogy and found joy in working on his family history. Gus loved photography, hiking, camping, scuba diving and scouting. Gus will be remembered for his fun antics, his belly laugh while watching A Christmas Story and his love for football and old Westerns.

Sandra Dahlstrom Kruger, 83, of Omaha, Nebraska, on January 23. Sandra grew up in Chicago and graduated from North Park Academy High School. She attended Coe College for two years and moved to Omaha in 1969. Sandra married James Kruger in 1973 in Lincoln. He preceded her in death on August 13, 2020. She was a member of the Lutheran Church of the Master in Omaha. Sandra is survived by her children, Barbara (Kenneth) Krzycki, Joni (Jeff) Gunn, Julie (Mark) Murphy, Jami (Kenneth) Kotera, Matt (Cheri) Keyes, Dan (Bethany) Kruger and Karla (David) Miller; 15 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

Charles “Dick” Swarzentruber, 85, of Columbia, Missouri, on January 21. Dick was president of Vigortone Ag Products, a licensed massage therapist, worked with assisted living adults and played Santa Claus for five years. Spending time with his family, friends, golfing and playing Santa were Dick’s greatest enjoyments in life. He shared his love and knowledge of golf with anyone who wanted to learn, and he was a patient teacher. He was known for his love, kindness, wisdom, advice, encouragement, support, understanding and lack of judgment. He is survived by five children, 13 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

1963

Charles “Chuck” Holtz, 82, of Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, on February 24. Chuck graduated in 1959 from Northwestern Military Academy in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Chuck continued his education at Coe College where he graduated in 1963.  During his sophomore year he met his future wife on a blind date. On March 23, 1963 Chuck and Judy Bowman were married by Judy’s father, Rev. Robert Clark Bowman. The couple moved to Menasha, Wisconsin, where Chuck began working with his father at the family business, Appleton Structural Steel. He took over the business in 1974 and worked until his retirement in 1995, when he and Judy moved to Sturgeon Bay. Chuck was a member of the Menasha Rotary, Sturgeon Bay Yacht Club, the United States Power Squadron and Bay View Lutheran Church. He lived an adventurous lifestyle and relished in the great outdoors whether he was sailing the Great Lakes, fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, scuba diving, off-road jeep racing, ice boating or just riding his tractor. Chuck will be missed by his wife of 59 years, Judy; children, John (Theresa) Holtz, Kathryn (Wayne) Koball, Susanne Holtz and Andrew (Stephanie) Holtz; 11 grandchildren; sister, Karen (Holtz) Herz; brother-in-law, Ron (Ann Dunlap) Bowman; sister-in-law, Roberta (Joe) Marchese; and nieces and nephews.

Richard “Dick” Wood, 82, of Waukesha, Wisconsin, on February 15. Dick earned his bachelor’s degree from Coe College and his master of science degree from University of Wisconsin - Whitewater. Dick was a dedicated educator for Elmbrook Schools for 37 years, retiring from Brookfield East High School in 2000 where he enjoyed teaching biology and coaching football and wrestling. He was a proud amateur radio operator for almost 60 years, operating with the call sign W9JBE and participating in the West Allis Amateur Radio Club and the Wisconsin Amateur Radio Club. Dick was a lover of sports and loved attending Badger football games and several “Bowl Games” with his wife where they made many friends over the years. He also had a great love for traveling, scuba diving and fly fishing. For a number of years, he helped organize and lead middle school and high school students into the Boundary Waters of Canada and the Big Horn Mountains on wilderness trips. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Sharon, his brothers-in-law Dennis (Bonnie) Hollnagel and Raymond (Sue) Hollnagel, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

1964

Anthony McCoy, 80, of St. Petersburg, Florida, on January 31. Tony graduated from Coe College with a bachelor’s degree in 1964 and from the University of Maine, with a Master of Business Administration in 1968. He was a captain in the U.S. Air Force from 1964-1968. He was an elder at First Presbyterian Church and served in leadership in the St. Petersburg Bicycle Club and Pinellas Trails. He was also a member of the Seminole Chamber of Commerce, St. Petersburg Yacht Club and the track team and Phi Kappa Tau fraternity at Coe College. He was a franchise owner of three UPS Stores and a marketing and advertising executive in banking. Tony was dedicated to cycling, sailing, supporting the Tampa Bay Rays and volunteering with St. Pete Free Clinic. He is survived by his wife, Virginia Harrison McCoy; son, Michael McCoy; daughter, Michele McCoy (Brian) Bochert; stepson, Rusty Eckert; stepdaughter, Ginger Eckert (Brian) Aloisio and two grandchildren.

1968

Naomi Hocken Brewster, 81, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on February 16. Naomi married her high school sweetheart, Bill Brewster, in 1961. They attended Iowa State University where he pursued engineering and she followed her passion for English literature. They relocated to Cedar Rapids in 1966 when Bill was hired by Collins Radio. Naomi continued her education at Coe for her bachelor’s degree, earning Phi Kappa Phi, Phi Beta Kappa, and magna cum laude academic honors. She attained her English and library science master’s degrees at the University of Iowa. Naomi taught English for 32 years at Washington High School, Harding Junior High and Kennedy High School. At Kennedy, she also served as the librarian for several years. Following her retirement in 2000, she taught part-time with English language learners at Kirkwood Community College. She was known for her sharp mind, impeccable memory, encouraging personality and high standards that challenged her students to achieve their full potential.  Naomi’s faith in Christ, passion for music (especially classical), travel and sewing and quilting hobbies were important to her. As a long-time member of the Cedar Valley Bible Church, she participated in AWANA ministries, the Lunch Bunch fellowship group and as church organist.  She taught piano while attending college and later to her two grandchildren. Travel was an important aspect of family life, and she planned annual family trips across the country and even a European tour in 1986. Her family enjoyed camping together at several state parks and an annual church family camp. Especially after retirement, Naomi and Bill were active with the East Iowa Heirloom Quilters, Freedom Stitchers of Iowa and Quilts of Valor. Naomi also enjoyed rooting for the Iowa Hawkeye football team and following politics. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, teacher and friend. She is survived by her husband, Bill Brewster; her son, Neil Brewster; two grandchildren and her sisters, Esther (John) Hamilton and Ellie (Clyde) Billington.

Maurice Van Note, 87, of Palo, Iowa, on February 7. Maurice studied business at Coe College. After three years, he transferred to the University of Iowa and obtained an accounting degree in 1968. Maurice married Pamela Corio in 2000, and they enjoyed 20 years of marriage prior to her passing in 2020. Early in his career, Maurice was an accountant for Wilson Meat Packing, where he tracked pickled pigs’ feet, but his love of all things farming soon lured him away. He spent countless hours establishing Vlieland Farms and the home of registered Holsteins with rolling cropland. His passion for farming extended to the classroom where he supported agricultural courses at Kirkwood Community College for future generations and served as a 4-H Leader for the Clinton Roughriders club. He was a member of the Iowa Holstein Association, Holstein Association USA and U.S. Southdown Association. Maurice was also a faithful member of the Hillside Wesleyan Church where he enjoyed the fellowship of congregants, especially the Agape Sunday School class. He enjoyed farming, reading, keeping up with various sports teams and listening to polka and gospel music. In his later years, he enjoyed recounting memories of farming with Belgian and Percheron horses in his early years, planting with the Super H Farmall, showing Holsteins at the World Dairy Expo and building a farm from the ground up to raise dairy cows, sheep and a family rooted in agriculture. He is survived by his three children, Kristyn (Shaun) Yoder, Bryan (Adrien) Van Note and Lynette (Eric) Bossler; 10 grandchildren as well as Pam’s children and grandchildren.

1969

Ralph Kephart, 83, of Manchester, Iowa, on January 18. Ralph graduated from Wilson High School, Coe College, and the University of Iowa. In 1960, he was united in marriage to Carol Henry at St. James Church in Cedar Rapids. One son was born to this union. Ralph entered the United States Army in February 1962 and was stationed in Hawaii.  He was honorably discharged in January 1965.  After serving in the military, Ralph and Carol lived in Cedar Rapids before moving to Manchester. Ralph worked as a school psychologist for many years. Ralph was an avid Iowa Hawkeye and Chicago Cubs fan and was very happy to see the Cubs win the World Series. He enjoyed being a master gardener and loved spending time with his grandson, Michael. Ralph was a faithful member of First Presbyterian Church in Manchester and served as an elder for many years.  He was an integral part of starting and volunteering at the Recreation Center.  Ralph had a compassionate heart for many people. He is survived by his son, Stephen (Julia McGrane) Kephart; his grandson, Michael Kephart; his life-long friend, Janet Lammie and many friends.

1971

David Kruger, 78, of Lake Bluff, Illinois, on November 30, 2022. David received a degree in pharmacy from South Dakota State University and a bachelor’s degree in business from Coe College, graduating summa cum laude. He practiced pharmacy for two years at St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, before beginning a career in 1971 with Abbott Laboratories in Minneapolis. After many career achievements, he retired in 1999 as national sales manager for the Abbott Diagnostics Division. He and his wife came to Anna Maria Island in 2002 and split their time with Lake Bluff. He was a member of the Community Church in Lake Bluff and Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach. He was an avid golfer, reader and gourmet cook and spent many hours walking his golden retriever, Daisy. He was known for his special sense of humor and for making people laugh. He is survived by his wife, Trish; sister Mary Long; brother-in-law Ken Mattison; and seven nieces and nephews.

1973

Ruth Rigby Adams, 72, of Decatur, Georgia, on February 24, 2018. She is survived by her children, A. Derek Bowman, Clifford Tyrell Adams and Corey Tevon Adams; two grandchildren, Trey Underwood and Laniya Adams; three siblings, Brenda Johnson, Phyllis (Leonard) Harris and Kevin (Kathy) Rigby; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, neighbors, classmates and friends. 

William “Bill” Carrithers, 71, of Yakima, Washington, on January 19. Bill was a stand-out athlete in tennis and basketball at Washington High School in Cedar Rapids. He was approved for conscientious objector status during the Vietnam War and graduated from Coe College with a degree in sociology. He was inducted into the Coe College Athletic Hall of Fame in 1992 as the first third-generation Kohawk to be inducted. His grandfather, athletic director and coach Ira Carrithers, was inducted in 1973 and his father, professor and Chair of Business Administration and Economics James Carrithers ’36, in 1976. Bill earned his master’s degree in social work from Portland State University and counseled clients before settling in western Massachusetts. He served as a therapist at Behavioral Health Network, where he was passionate about group therapy and mindfulness. He also volunteered with the Red Cross, counseling victims of natural disasters, and helped coach men’s soccer at Springfield Technical Community College. He was known for being intellectual, athletic and compassionate throughout his life. Bill is survived by his siblings, Caroline, Ellie and David; daughter Angie; granddaughter Fiona; former girlfriend Joan Axelrod-Contrada and extended family.

1976

Craig Kadlec, 68, of Robins, Iowa, on January 5. Craig graduated from Kennedy High School in 1972, where he had a passion for football and wrestling. His college years began at University of Northern Iowa, and he transferred to Coe College after his first year, experiencing much success playing football at both schools. Craig’s first teaching job was as K-12 physical education teacher and football and wrestling coach with North English Valley Schools. In 1979, he had the yearning to get back to Cedar Rapids and started teaching science at Regis High School and teach science. He fell in love with his coworker, Julie Anne Allender, and the two were married in 1983. Together they had three children, Josef Wayne, Ashley Lyn and Corey Martin. Throughout his career, Craig taught science and physical education classes and coached football and wrestling at Regis and Xavier High Schools. Craig touched many lives throughout his 44 years in education. He encouraged his students to believe in themselves, trust their abilities to pursue careers in science, serve others and shape their lives with a strong work ethic and faith. He also encouraged his children to be involved in activities, work hard, respect others and believe in God. Family trips and morel mushroom hunting were favorite family activities. Craig and Julie spent much of their time refinishing furniture, remodeling their homes and gardening. His six grandchildren lit up his life. He enjoyed taking them on golf cart rides and letting them fill up the bird feeders. Craig is survived by his wife Julie; his children, Josef Wayne (Emily) Kadlec, Ashley Lyn (Casey) Everts and Corey Martin (Samantha) Kadlec; six grandchildren; his siblings, Linda Myers, Sheila (Paul) Stevens, Robert (Penny) Kadlec DVM and Timothy (LuAnn) Kadlec; as well as nieces, nephews and cousins.

1983

Steven Gensicke, 75, of Marion, Iowa, on February 17. Steve graduated from Jefferson High School in 1966, where he was a proud member of the football and golf teams. Growing up, Steve helped with his family’s garden and orchard and loved riding the family horses. He married Mary Ann Jenkins in 1970. Steve then attended officer training at Fort Benning, Georgia, and was attached to the Cedar Rapids Army Reserve unit as Captain. Steve received bachelor’s degrees in business administration from the University of Iowa and computer science from Coe College and spent the bulk of his career at Rockwell Collins, where he started the very first HP computer room. Steve and his family purchased Allen’s Orchard in 2010 where he enjoyed tending the apples and welcoming the many families that visited with his ready smile. Steve loved spending time with his family, golfing, woodworking, cooking, Sherlock Holmes stories, cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes and telling people about apples. Steve is survived by his wife of 52 years, Mary Ann Gensicke; children, Anne (Shane) Ohrt and Chris (Nicole) Gensicke; two grandchildren; siblings, Robyn (Mike) Uptegraff and Holly (Al) Louvar; three nephews; and the family dog Seamus.

1990

Georgieann Schmitt, 80, of Plano, Texas, on January 23. Georgieann earned her registered nurse license in 1963 from Saint Francis School of Nursing of Evanston, Illinois. In 1963, Georgieann married and settled in Marion, Iowa, to raise her five children. She worked as an emergency room nurse at Mercy Hospital in Cedar Rapids and later earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration at Coe College, graduating magna cum laude. She worked in human resources as a nurse recruiter at St. Luke’s Hospital and later earned her MBA in human resources from University of Iowa in 1995. In 1998, Georgieann settled in Plano, Texas, where she loved cruising around in her red convertible Mustang GT. Georgieann enjoyed making friends, chatting about her beloved Chicago Cubs, Chicago Bears and Iowa Hawkeyes, cooking, baking and needlecrafts, spending many hours sewing, knitting and doing cross stitch. Those who knew Georgieann will miss her ready laugh and wit. She is survived by her brother, Andrew; her children, Thomas, Steven (Rebecca), Kevin (Nikki) and Keri; and five grandchildren.

1991

John Grace II, 55, of Tiffin, Iowa, on January 4. John attended Coe College, where he continued his high school football career. He spent time as an excavating contractor, worked at U-Haul and had a lawn care and snow removal service. Many referred to John as “Mr. Tiffin” because of how he loved his hometown and cared for it. John was a perfectionist and took great pride in everything he did, putting heart and soul into his passions. He was an avid bodybuilder, claiming the title of Mr. Iowa in 1995 and 1996. He also was a semi-pro jet ski racer, scuba diver, antique collector, Iowa Hawkeyes Men’s Basketball and Seattle Seahawks fan, drummer, UFO and Sasquatch/BigFoot chaser and traveler of the United States. He also loved Lord of the Rings, dogs, cats, horses and fishing.  John was especially proud of his membership to the Tiffin Lions Club as one of its charter members. He is survived by his wife, Tina; sister, Elizabeth “Liz” (Mike) Litwiller; Tina’s parents, Kathy and Mike Wyatt; brothers, Jared (Jessica) Jacobsen, Justin (Ashley) Jacobson and Joel Jacobson; nieces and nephew.

1993

Lee DeWitt, 75, of North Port, Florida, on March 8. Lee was united in marriage to Charlotte Kluss, and two children, Andrew and Shannon, were born from this marriage. Lee retired from General Mills in 2010 when he and Charlotte moved to North Port, Florida. He loved wildlife and spent his retirement volunteering at the Peace River Wildlife Center in Punta Gordo where he rescued animals and honored any request made of him. Lee loved playing chess, participating in several tournaments over the years and sharing his knowledge of chess with young adults. Lee also loved spending time with family. He was kind and generous, always putting others before himself. He is survived by wife, Charlotte DeWitt; children, Andrew (Stephanie) DeWitt and Shannon (Mike) Schlofelt; and grandson, Killian Schlofelt.

Glenda Parker Kea, 66, of Allen, Texas, on April 25, 2022.

1998

Jane Schneider Suiter, 74, of Marion, Iowa, on January 24. Jane received her bachelor’s degree from Briar Cliff College in Sioux City, Iowa, and master’s degree from Coe College. Jane was united in marriage to James “Jim” Suiter. To this union two sons were born, Jeremy and Jonathan. Jane worked as a substitute teacher until she and Jim later divorced. Then she began working full time as a teacher for Kennedy High School in Cedar Rapids, where she coached freshman volleyball and refereed many volleyball games. Jane also worked part-time at K’s Merchandise and ran Volley’s during the summers. Upon her retirement from teaching, Jane enjoyed being an adjunct instructor at Kirkwood Community College, where she could share her knowledge in technology. She volunteered and served as president of the Linn Community Food Bank. Jane enjoyed playing golf, traveling, trivia, playing cards and “granny basketball.” Jane loved spending time with her friends and family, especially attending her grandchildren’s school events. Jane is survived by her two sons, Jeremy (Jamie) Suiter and Jonathan (Bonnie Hahn) Suiter; three grandchildren; brother, Tom (Luann) Schneider, and two grand-puppies.

2026

Tyler McDonald, 19, of Waukegan, Illinois, on February 17.

Faculty/Staff

Dr. John Jackobs, 83, of Mason, Ohio, on January 10. John graduated from Superior State University in 1961 and in that same year had open heart surgery at the Variety Heart Hospital in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He received a master’s degree in chemistry from Iowa State University in 1964 and his doctorate in chemistry specializing in crystallography from Arizona State University in 1967. He married Miriam Kaled in 1965 in Sioux City, Iowa. John continued post-doctoral studies at Case Western Reserve University, where he published five papers. He then served as associate professor at Heidelberg College and as director of the computer center and registrar as well as professor at Coe College. He worked at Coe for 12 years before joining Jenzabar, a software company in Cincinnati that specialized in computer program packages for colleges and universities. He taught purchasers how to use the programs until his retirement in 2004. John’s activities include sharing camping skills as a scoutmaster where he was highly honored for his dedication with the district award of merit and Council Silver Beaver Award.  His troop made three trips to Philmont, the National Scout Ranch in New Mexico, and he guided fourteen scouts towards their eagle badge. He also was active as an officer in the Eastern Iowa Science Fair, loved photography from developing film to printing and taking pictures, pursued woodworking and pyrography, turned beautiful wood pieces with the Ohio Valley Woodturners Guild, spent time building 73 homes with Habitat for Humanity, enjoyed biking and took many long-distance bike trips with Rails to Rails. He was active in his parish, ushering at Mass and being involved in CRHP, M4, pastoral council and the Youth Ministries Advisory Board. He was also active with the church’s twinning parish in Uganda, the Friends of Nyamitanga, the church’s sister site with a parish in Uganda.  He participated in two mission trips to Honduras and Mexico and enjoyed traveling with his wife of 57 years, even completing a half-marathon on the continent of Antarctica. John had a habit of writing to his sons every Sunday evening and sharing the week’s activities that he and Miriam had done. He is survived by his sons, Mark (Alicja), Daniel (Debbie) and Thomas and his two grandchildren.